JEDDAH, 2 October 2003 — Finance Minister Dr. Ibrahim Al-Assaf has said the Riyadh Economic Forum which opens on Monday will boost the Kingdom’s economic development.
“The forum will bring together an array of prominent businessmen, decisionmakers, journalists and others interested in boosting the Saudi economy,” he added.
Al-Assaf said the conference would provide vital information on the Saudi economy as papers presented there would contain the latest data available from official agencies.
Crown Prince Abdullah, deputy premier and commander of the National Guard, is scheduled to inaugurate the three-day event at the King Faisal Conference Hall.
“This forum is the culmination of 24 months of efforts,” Al-Assaf said.
More than 300 people including several businesswomen took part in preliminary discussions.
Al-Assaf said the forum would focus on a number of strategic issues including the development of infrastructure and manpower and the need to revise government rules and policies.
Organized by the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the forum will also focus on the role of Saudi businesswomen in economic development. Some 70 Saudi female academics and businesswomen are expected to take part in special workshop at the forum.
The forum will discuss ways of improving the investment climate in the country, enhancing production standards, creating more job opportunities and strengthening the cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Events at the forum will be broadcast to all Saudi chambers and beyond over the Internet.
